Novus Leisure to reopen Abacus as Forge bar and restaurant

The Novus Leisure venue has been gutted and is undergoing a change in décor and colour scheme

As part of their £20 million venue refresh programme, Novus Leisure has closed and renovated its Late Night London venue Abacus in the City of London, which will reopen as Forge bar and restaurant in July.

Novus Leisure is following on their recent opening of Core​ by rolling on to the next location in its planned two year refurbishment period. The venue that was once Abacus, located in the Cornhill area of the City, was closed down in May and is set to reopen as Forge late night bar and restaurant in July.

The new Forge venue will have a modern feel and concentrate on its meat offering, cooking in ‘the pit’ as well as offering a range of drinks late into the night for busy City professionals.

Ambience ​

Forge bar and restaurant is set to be very different from Abacus, presenting a more modern approach. Novus Leisure has spent time changing the menu and aims to serve cocktails and spirits that are absolute premiums. The venue has been gutted and is undergoing a change in décor and colour scheme.

The new bar will boast a ‘grand interior’ that includes stripped back brickwork and leather booths to give a decadent feel. Novus Leisure intends to create an ‘enthralling but relaxed environment’ which will appeal to those that work in the City, be it for a quick lunch or after work drinks or dinner. However it also aims to attract a wider audience than it did as Abacus.

In terms of drinks Forge will offer a wide range, from craft beers to artisan cocktails. The food offering will revolve around its meat cuts, and there is a bespoke menu with seasoned meat from ‘the pit’ that can be served with sides and condiments. The menu has been designed with indulgence in mind, and offers dishes such as Coca Cola glazed pork ribs.